Did you know that Prodrive homologated its GT racing version of the Ferrari 550 Maranello as a 550 GTO? We appreciate that comparing the car to the fabled 1960s Ferrari with which is shares its ‘Gran Turismo Omologato’ nomenclature sounds bizarre, but there are, in fact, parallels to be drawn.
Both are front-engined 12-cylinder Ferraris. Both were utterly dominant in their respective (golden) eras of GT racing. Both won their class at the most famous and challenging endurance race of them all: Le Mans. Both emit soul-stirring symphonies from their exhaust pipes. And, perhaps this goes without saying, both are also exceptionally beautiful.
The second 550 Maranello Prodrive constructed in 2002 and the fifth built overall, chassis number CRD05 boasts the distinction of being the most raced example of them all, with 69 starts on its competition résumé between 2003 and 2008. Highlights included GTS class victory at Petit Le Mans and three editions of the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
From an audacious idea kindled in Frédéric Dor’s mind to reality, the story of the Prodrive-built 550 Maranello is a fairytale, studded with awe, intrigue, romance and, of course, success. And chassis CRD05 - the most raced example of them all - played such an integral role. Its historic significance and value simply cannot be underestimated.
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Video: ‪@salternsmedia‬Tom May / Salterns Media